Quote Originally Posted by boballman View Post
A few years ago I purchased a razor with mammoth ivory bark stabilized scales. The scales came warped, more twisted than curved. Most of the twist is at the wedge end. The razor does not close without catching the edge.

My question is...how to straighten them. I have straightened wood, horn, bone and antler by boiling for about 1/2 hour then clamping on a bar of 1/8x1x6" piece of brass, then in the oven at 200 for 2 hours to dry. Since this is stabilized tusk, I don't think boiling will help soften them, so maybe I should skip this step. I don't know if heating in the oven then cooling will work. BUT most of all I don't want to ruin them. They are pretty!

If any one has ideas or experience...I'm all ears.

Bob @ OCD Razors
Hmm... ivory...... only ideas no direct experience.

Do a google search for "ivory piano keys warped"
Piano guys know a lot about ivory.

I do not know but suspect that ivory is not going to
respond to heat more than a little. The warping is
likely from uneven splashes of water or humidity
in the shave den.

Consider a temporary liner made of folded brass or something that
will not interfere with the razor and will apply light spring tension to the
scales for a long time. Apply the folded sheath to the razor
squeeze it tight and close the razor.

Folded steel or brass shim stock should help protect the edge
and coax the scales into shape if sized correctly.

Dry the razor well and use Tuf-Glide Rust Inhibitor & Lubricant
or the equivalent on the blade because the shim stock will keep air from drying
the blade the way it normally does.

You can also just close it with care let it air dry for a month or two and see
if it lines back up.

It may be responding to the wedge tension.. A new wedge or
new wedge end pin job might help.

First step protect from rust and air dry it for a while.

I have a couple razors that only close correctly if I watch
and guide the edge into the scales with care. It is a good
habit to get into no mater what.